General tips for Longford drivers about safety on the road when travelling

Don't drive tired
Driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You aren't as alert and will have a slower reaction time if anything unexpected happens. If you are feeling tired, stop and take a break in a safe place, it is not enough to just wind down a window or turn the radio up. Drink 2 cups of coffee or the caffeine equivalent and take a nap, this will allow the caffeine time to kick in.

Buckle up
There is absolutely no excuse for not wearing a seat belt, it could save your life and the lives of anyone else in the car. Make sure all other passengers in your car are belted up, any child seats are properly installed and secured and keep your pets safe too.

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Say no to speeding
The speed limit is not a target and should be obeyed at all times. Be extra careful while driving through built up areas and near schools.

Don't text and drive
You are twice as likely to crash while text driving as drink driving so using your phone while driving is a big no no. Turn off any notifications if you think they will be a distraction and hide your phone somewhere you can't easily get it to avoid temptation.

Don't tailgate
Tailgating is pointless and dangerous, especially in adverse weather conditions. Leave at least 1-2 car lengths between you and the car in front to ensure you can brake in time. Tailgating can force people to drive at speeds they are uncomfortable with and get into an accident.

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Use your indicator
Unpredictable driving causes accidents. How many times have you been frustrated by a driver not indicating properly on a roundabout? Other road users aren't psychic and cannot predict what you are going to do. Failure to indicate can mean the driver behind you won't slow down enough to allow you time to turn.

Check your tyres
Proper tyre care and maintenance is essential to keeping safe on the road. Check your tyres regularly to make sure the thread count is safe and they are inflated properly. Most garages will do this for you for free too.

Remember to share the road
Respect not only other drivers but cyclists and pedestrians. Give cyclists enough space while passing and don't drive too closely behind them. Be mindful of pedestrian areas and crosswalks. Motor cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road too.